Jefferson, North Carolina
Jefferson, North Carolina is a great destination for outdoor adventurers. With its scenic trails, breathtaking views, and must-visit attractions, it’s no wonder that it is a popular destination for those who adore the great outdoors. There are plenty of activities to choose from, such as hiking, biking, camping, kayaking, and fishing. The nearby New River State Park is a great spot for those looking for a peaceful stroll or a challenging trek. There are also plenty of opportunities to explore the area’s rich history, with historical sites and monuments scattered throughout the area. The nearby Blue Ridge Parkway is a must-visit for those seeking an awe-inspiring and picturesque journey. With its winding roads, stunning views, and plenty of wildlife, it’s a great way to spend a day. No matter what type of outdoor activities you’re looking for, Jefferson, North Carolina is a thrilling treasure trove sure to provide you with plenty of options.
Top Spots in and near Jefferson
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Creston, North Carolina
Three Top Mountain
4.2 mi / 1260 ft gainThree Top Mountain sits within the same vicinity of Elk Knob. The mountain gets its name from its three prominent rock projections at its peak. The highest point, unofficially named “Big Rock”, is at an elevation of 5020 feet. Prior to the originally named rock peak, you will arrive at Huckleb...Read more -
Purlear, North Carolina
The Lump Trail
4.00.27 mi / 82 ft gainThe Lump Trail is an out-and-back trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Purlear, North Carolina.Read more -
Purlear, North Carolina
Cascades Trail
5.00.86 mi / 220 ft gainCascades Trail is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a waterfall located near Deep Gap, North Carolina.Read more -
Todd, North Carolina
Hike the Elk Knob Summit Trail
5.03.8 mi / 1000 ft gainThere are no bathrooms at the trailhead, so if needed, drive a little past it to the park bathrooms on the left. Park at the summit trailhead and start your hike on the new gravel path. The trail gains 1000 ft in elevation in just under 2 miles so take your time if need be - and bring plenty of w...Read more -
Mouth of Wilson, Virginia
Photograph Sugarland Overlook
Located just inside the park entrance of Grayson Highlands State Park in Virginia, Sugarland Overlook provides an outstanding easterly view of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. The Sugarland Overlook is located about a mile up from the ranger station and is on the righthand side of the road....Read more -
Mouth of Wilson, Virginia
Twin Pinnacles Loop
5.01.35 mi / 157 ft gainPark at the Visitor Center; don't stress when you get to the parking lot and can't see it, it's up the hill. From the parking lot hike across the road and find the staircase. Follow this up to the Visitor Center. If you're standing in front of the Visitor Center, the trailhead will be to the left...Read more -
Mouth of Wilson, Virginia
Mount Rogers via Appalachian Trail
5.09.1 mi / 1549 ft gainFirst of all, who doesn't love wild ponies! There are tons of ponies here, and although they are wild, they are not afraid of people and you can get pretty close (just don't feed them!). Once you enter Grayson Highlands State Park, you will see a parking lot for Massie Gap a few miles in, par...Read more -
Mouth of Wilson, Virginia
Backpack the Grayson Highlands
4.89.1 mi / 1549 ft gainSpanning roughly 4500 acres, located in a portion of Jefferson National Forest, looming under the highest peak in Virginia lies the Grayson Highlands. A part of Virginia’s State Parks system and a United States National Landmark, located in Mouth of Wilson, Virginia, the Highlands are home to wil...Read more -
Mouth of Wilson, Virginia
Rhododendron Trail to Rock Croppings
5.01.77 mi / 289 ft gainIn order to go when the Rhododendron are blooming you'll need to aim for the first three weeks of June. Starting from the Massies Gap parking area in the Grayson Highlands State Park, follow the trail through the field and towards the base of a large hill. You will see a fence that runs along t...Read more -
Mouth of Wilson, Virginia
Hike and Fish Cabin Creek Trail
5.01.8 mi / 400 ft gainStarting at the Massie Gap Parking Area follow the paved road down towards the woods. You will see a gravel dirt path off the side of the road to your right that heads back towards the woods. A couple steps down the trail you will see a metal pole with "Cabin Creek Trail" written on it. Follow th...Read more -
Mouth of Wilson, Virginia
Photograph Wild Horses at Grayson Highlands State Park
4.61.8 mi / 306 ft gainThe wild horses gather on top of the bald at the end of Horse Trail North located in Grayson Highlands State Park. Because they are wild, it is important to remember not to touch or feed the horses. The horses are accustomed to hikers and will allow you in their near proximity, but bring a zoom l...Read more -
Mouth of Wilson, Virginia
Twin Pinnacles via Big Pinnacles Trail
5.02 mi / 525 ft gainTo reach the Big Pinnacle Trail Head, park at the Massie Gap Day Parking area, and then follow the road west (away from Massie Gap) until you reach the trail head located on the left side of the road. Follow the Big Pinnacles Trail for 0.4 miles until it intersects with the Twin Pinnacles Trail....Read more -
Mouth of Wilson, Virginia
Wilburn Ridge and Massie Gap Loop
5.02.32 mi / 318 ft gainTo reach the trail head, park in the Massie Gap Parking Lot. This is the parking lot for most of the trails in the park, so it can fill up very quickly, but you are able to park along the side of the road. Massie Gap as two parking areas: one intended for overnight hikers and one for day hikers...Read more -
Mouth of Wilson, Virginia
Mount Rogers Loop
5.015.6 mi / 1079 ft gainFor an awesome 2-3 day trip, start hiking at the Massie Gap trailhead, which can be reached from Grayson Highlands State Park. Take the Rhododendron Trail up the ridge to connect with the AT, keeping an eye out for wild ponies in the Massie Gap area as they like to hang out here. Some of these po...Read more -
Mouth of Wilson, Virginia
Stamper's Branch Trail
3.37 mi / 781 ft gainStamper's Branch Trail is an out-and-back trail that provides a good opportunity to view wildlife located near Mouth of Wilson, Virginia.Read more -
Sparta, North Carolina
Hike the Bluff Mountain Trail
1.8 mi / 270 ft gainBefore you head out, check the status of the Blue Ridge Parkway (it periodically closes during the winter). The entire Bluff Mountain Trail is a 7.1 mile trail that traverses the Doughton Park Area along the Blue Ridge Parkway. To do this particular hike, park at the bathrooms in the Doughton P...Read more
Top Activities
Camping and Lodging in Jefferson
Boone, North Carolina
Boone KOA Holiday
For a real high, stay overnight at the Boone KOA, the highest KOA east of the Mississippi at an altitude of nearly 4,000 feet. Nature and...
Sparta, North Carolina
Doughton Park Campground
Overview
Doughton Park is a landscape of mountains, open meadows and pioneer cabins, 30 miles (48 km) of hiking trails and a place to vie...
1946 Laurel Valley Road
Grindstone
Overview
Grindstone Campground is tucked in the Fairwood Valley among pastures and wooded hillsides. The surrounding Mount Rogers Nationa...
Mouth of Wilson, Virginia
Old Virginia Group Horse Camp
Overview
Old Virginia Group Horse Camp provides group equestrian camping just minutes from a large network of horse trails in the Mount ...
Troutdale, Virginia
Fox Creek Horse Camp
Overview
Fox Creek Horse Camp is a premiere destination for riding enthusiasts who are looking for the rare opportunity to ride from thei...
Damascus, Virginia
Beartree
Overview
Beartree offers a relaxing, family-friendly atmosphere and a variety of recreational activities. Located in the Mount Rogers Nat...
